Conversion to Integrated Employment: Case Studies of Organizational Change, Volume 1

These three case studies are part of a larger study of six organizations that have closed a sheltered workshop or a nonwork, segregated program and replaced it with integrated employment or other integrated, community-based activities for individuals with disabilities. The organizations vary with respect to size, geographic location, and the characteristics of persons receiving supports. The purpose of our inquiry was to examine the process of organizational change and the internal and external factors that influence it in order to assist other organizations interested in pursuing a similar goal. Site visits were conducted over a period of two full days with each organization, during which interviews were conducted with key players in the conversion process and representatives of the major constituencies affected by the change including program participants, program staff, family members, board members, funding agencies, employers, and other community agencies.


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